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Abstract:

Aspects of the disclosure relate to control of consumption of content in
an appliance. The content can include linear programming and non-linear
assets. Such control can permit (i) changing a channel in the appliance
(e.g., a CPE without upstream functionality) and thus selecting a
linear-programming asset, a non-linear asset, and so forth, and (ii)
controlling consumption of such assets. In one aspect, a device with
upstream network connectivity can control the consumption of media in the
appliance. The device can leverage data management and control
functionality of a service provider network to acquire information
related to assets available for consumption and to transmit asset
requests to the service provider network, which can transmit content and
signaling to the appliance in accordance at least in part with the asset
request, thus controlling media consumption in the appliance.

Claims:

1. A method, comprising: receiving, by a computing device, data
indicative of a plurality of assets available for consumption, the
plurality of assets comprising at least one content asset and at least
one management asset, and wherein the at least one management asset
allows the computing device to control navigation by a first device of
the at least one content asset; transmitting, by the computing device, a
first message comprising a command for the first device to tune to a
specified downstream frequency carrier; and transmitting, by the
computing device, a second message conveying a command for consuming, via
the first device, the at least one content asset, wherein the second
message is transmitted to the first device on the specified downstream
frequency carrier.

Description:

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application is a Continuation of U.S. Non-Provisional
application Ser. No. 13/312,475 filed Dec. 6, 2011, herein incorporated
by reference in its entirety.

[0003] Some embodiments of the disclosure provide indirect in-band control
of consumption of content, such as media, in an appliance. The media can
comprise data, music, video, advertisement, service notifications, or the
like, and the appliance can be customer premises equipment (CPE), such as
an electronic device that is part of a network (e.g., a communication
network, a home network, a utilities network, or combinations thereof)
having various levels of computational capabilities. In certain
embodiments, the electronic device can be a display device without
computing functionality that renders a previously decoded signal. In
networks such as a broadband packet-switched networks, a cable/fiber
optic network or a satellite-based network, the available media can
comprise linear-programming assets or non-linear assets, such as
per-per-view (PPV) assets or video-on-demand (VOD) assets. The indirect
in-band control described herein can permit changing a channel in the
appliance (e.g., a device such as CPE without upstream functionality) and
thus selecting a linear-programming asset, a non-linear asset, etc. Such
control can permit regulating consumption of the linear programming asset
or the non-linear asset. To implement the disclosed control of
consumption of content in an appliance, a device remote from the
appliance, and having upstream network connectivity, can leverage data
management and control functionality of a service provider network to
acquire information related to assets (linear programming, non-linear
assets, management assets, such control functions, etc.) made available
for consumption by the service provider. Based on the acquired
information, the device can transmit an asset request to the service
provider network which can process the asset request. In response, the
service provider network can transmit content and signaling to the
appliance in accordance at least in part with the asset request, thus
controlling media consumption in the appliance.

[0004] The disclosed indirect control of media consumption can be effected
via in-band signaling. Such functionality can include messaging structure
specific to indirect control of a remote appliance, network resource
assessment, and selection of suitable pathways for delivery of controlled
media. In one aspect, the messaging structure of the disclosure can
comprise, for example, a broadcast message that, when processed, can
cause the appliance to tune to a desired channel (either a
linear-programming channel or a media-on-demand channel). In another
aspect, the messaging structure of the disclosure can comprise control
messages that, when processed, can regulate consumption (selection of
content, rendering modality, etc.) of content (e.g., media content) in
the appliance. Such control messages can be transmitted to the appliance
in-band, in specific channels pathways, rather than broadcast in a
service group. Here, a channel pathway can comprise a virtual channel or
a downstream frequency carrier in a channel plan (e.g., a predetermined
non-empty set of downstream frequencies available to a service group)
associated with the appliance.

[0005] Some embodiments of the disclosure can provide several advantages.
One exemplary advantage can include broadening the scope of digital
services accessed through a low-complexity low-cost CPE by exploiting
functionality of a device with upstream connectivity to leverage data
management and control functionality of the network that is typically
accessed through CPE having more complex functionality. Other exemplary
advantages include permitting a more fulfilling interactive user
experience, and increased quality of service. Affording rich digital
services to such equipment can provide additional revenue opportunities
for a network operator.

[0006] Additional aspects or advantages of the subject disclosure will be
set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be
obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the
subject disclosure. The advantages of the disclosure can be realized and
attained by means of the elements and combinations particularly pointed
out in the appended claims. It is to be understood that both the
foregoing general description and the following detailed description are
exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the subject
disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] The annexed drawings are an integral part of the disclosure and
illustrate exemplary embodiments thereof. Together with the description
set forth herein and claims appended hereto the annexed drawings serve to
explain various principles, features, or aspects of the disclosure.

[0008] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary network environment in accordance
with one or more aspects of the disclosure.

[0009] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a network in
accordance with one or more aspects of the disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a network node in
accordance with one or more aspects of the disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a network node in
accordance with one or more aspects of the disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a device in
accordance with one or more aspects of the disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary method according to one or more
aspects described herein.

[0014] FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary method according to one or more
aspects described herein.

[0015] FIG. 8 illustrates an exemplary method according to one or more
aspects described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] The various aspects described herein can be understood more readily
by reference to the following detailed description of exemplary
embodiments of the subject disclosure and to the annexed drawings and
their previous and following description.

[0017] Before the present systems, articles, apparatuses, and methods are
disclosed and described, it is to be understood that the disclosure is
not limited to specific systems, articles, apparatuses, and methods for
indirectly controlling media consumption at an appliance, such as a CPE.
It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the
purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to
be limiting.

[0018] As used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular
forms "a," "an" and "the" include plural referents unless the context
clearly dictates otherwise

[0019] Ranges may be expressed herein as from "about" one particular
value, and/or to "about" another particular value. When such a range is
expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular value
and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are
expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent "about," it will be
understood that the particular value forms another embodiment. It will be
further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are
significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of
the other endpoint.

[0020] As utilized in this specification and the annexed drawings, the
terms "system," "component," "unit," "interface," "platform," "node,"
"function," "appliance," "controller" and the like are intended to
include a computer-related entity or an entity related to an operational
apparatus with one or more specific functionalities, wherein the
computer-related entity or the entity related to the operational
apparatus can be either hardware, a combination of hardware and software,
software, or software in execution. Such entities also are referred to as
"functional elements." As an example, a unit can be, but is not limited
to being, a process running on a processor, a processor, an object
(metadata object, data object, signaling object), an executable computer
program, a thread of execution, a program, a memory (e.g., a hard-disc
drive), and/or a computer. As another example, a unit can be an apparatus
with specific functionality provided by mechanical parts operated by
electric or electronic circuitry which is operated by a software
application or a firmware application executed by a processor, wherein
the processor can be internal or external to the apparatus and can
execute at least a portion of the software application or the firmware
application. As yet another example, a unit can be an apparatus that
provides specific functionality through electronic functional elements
without mechanical parts, the electronic functional elements can include
a processor therein to execute software or firmware that provides, at
least in part, the functionality of the electronic functional elements.
The foregoing examples and related illustrations are but a few examples
and are not intended to be limiting. In addition, while such
illustrations are presented for a unit, the foregoing examples also apply
to a node, a function, a controller, a component, a system, a platform,
and the like. It is noted that in certain embodiments, or in connection
with certain aspects or features of such embodiments, the terms "unit,"
"component," "system," "interface," "platform" "node," "function,"
"appliance," "controller" can be utilized interchangeably.

[0021] Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the
words "comprise," "include," and "having" and their variations, such as
"comprising" and "comprises," "including" and "includes," "having" and
"has," mean "including but not limited to," and are not intended to
exclude, for example, other units, nodes, components, functions,
interfaces, actions, steps, or the like. "Exemplary" means "an example
of" and is not intended to convey an indication of a preferred or ideal
embodiment. "Such as" is not used in a restrictive sense, but for
explanatory purposes.

[0022] Reference will now be made in detail to the various embodiment(s)
and related aspects of the subject disclosure, example(s) of which are
illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same
reference numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same
or like parts.

[0023] As described in greater detail below, in one aspect, the disclosure
relates to indirect control, e.g., via in-band signaling, of consumption
of media in an appliance networked in a first network via a device
networked in a second network. The first network and the second network
can be communication networks that employ wireless or wired communication
links, or both. The communication networks can include one or more of
wired networks such as coaxial cable, optical fiber, or mixed networks,
broadband packet-switched networks, utility networks, or wireless
networks such as macrocellular networks (3GPP Long Term Evolution
Networks, 4G, etc.), microcellular networks (e.g., Wi-Fi networks,
femtocell networks, etc.), satellite-based networks, or any other type of
network. The content or media can include linear programming and
non-linear assets. The indirect control described herein can permit
changing a channel in the appliance (e.g., one-way customer premises
equipment) and thus selecting different linear programming, selecting a
non-linear asset, and controlling consumption of the non-linear asset. In
certain scenarios, the disclosed indirect in-band control can exploit
functionality of a device with upstream connectivity to leverage data
management and control functionality of a service provider network. Such
functionality can include messaging structure specific to indirect
control of a remote appliance, network resource assessment, and selection
of suitable pathways for delivery of controlled media.

[0024] Referring to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a high-level block
diagram of an exemplary network environment in which indirect control of
media consumption in an appliance can be implemented in accordance with
one or more aspects of the subject disclosure. The exemplary network
environment 100 comprises a device 110 functionally coupled (e.g.,
communicatively coupled via wired and/or wireless link) to a network A
120 which can include wireless networks, wireline networks, and any
combination thereof. A data and signaling pipe 114 comprising an upstream
link, or uplink (UL), and a downstream link, or downlink (DL), enables
functional coupling among the device 110 and the network A 120. The data
and signaling pipe 114 can comprise a wireless link or wireline link, or
a combination thereof. Device 110 can be embodied in or comprise most any
CPE or user device (mobile or otherwise).

[0025] As illustrated, network A 120 is functionally coupled to a network
B 130 via a data and signaling pipe 124. Network B 130 can include
wireless networks, wireline networks, and any combination thereof. In one
aspect, network B 130 can be administered (e.g., owned, operated, and/or
leased) by a network operator that provides services such as digital
television content, internet protocol (IP) video content; digital
telephony; data services, such as wide-area network services (e.g.,
internet service) or home network services (e.g., Wi-Fi access, femtocell
access) and the like. The data and signaling pipe 124 can comprise one or
more of a reference link, and related components; a conventional bus
architecture such as address buses, system buses; a conventional wireline
link, such as an Ethernet line, a T-carrier line, a twisted-pair line, or
the like; a wireless link, including terrestrial wireless links or
satellite-based links, or a combination thereof; and so forth.

[0026] Network A 120 and network B 130 can include one or more of wide
area networks (WANs), one or more local area networks (LANs), signaling
networks (e.g., SS#7), etc.), and so forth. Such networks can operate in
accordance with any communication protocol, such as protocols for
wireline communication or wireless communication. In certain embodiments,
network A 120 can have internal structure, with several functional
elements that can provide various operational blocks, such as a backbone
network (e.g., a high-capacity packet-switched network), a core network
platform, a radio access network, etc. Similarly, in such embodiments,
network B 130 also can have internal structure, with various functional
elements that can provide at least two main operational blocks: a
backbone network (e.g., a high-capacity packet-switched network) and a
regional access network (RAN). Both the backbone network and the regional
access network (RAN) can be WANs, for example, with the backbone network
having a larger geographical scope than the RAN. Network A 120 and
network B 130 also can include one or more middleware components that, at
least partly in conjunction with data and signaling pipe 124, permit
functional coupling among such networks, among other functions.

[0027] As illustrated, network 130 can be functionally coupled to an
appliance 140 via data and signaling pipe which can comprise a downlink
134 for downstream communication. The appliance 140 can be any device
such as customer premises equipment, including an electronic device that
is part of a network (e.g., a communication network, a home network, a
utilities network, or combinations thereof) and can have various levels
of computational capabilities. In certain embodiments, the electronic
device can be a terminal display device without computing functionality
that renders a previously decoded signal. For example, the appliance 140
can be at least one of a terminal display device, a digital terminal
adaptor (DTA), a set top box (STB), an IP-enabled television, a personal
computer, and so forth. In one embodiment, DL 134 can transport data and
signaling in-band, without availability of an out-of-band channel for
signaling. In such embodiment or in an alternative embodiment, appliance
140 can be a one-way device that cannot transmit upstream communications
to network B 130.

[0028] Consumption of content (linear programming, non-linear assets,
etc.) at appliance 140 can be controlled or supplemented through device
110. In one aspect, device 110 can access network B 130 and leverage data
management functionality and control functionality provided by the
network B 130 and associated with a service (e.g., digital television
service) consumed by appliance 140. In one exemplary scenario related to
digital television, device 110 can exchange data and signaling with
network B 130, via network A 120, as part of an asset discovery 116 in
which device 110 can query networks 120 and/or 130, or an asset storage
location, for an asset available for consumption, such as media content
(music, video, advertisement, notifications (e.g., stock option quotes,
location-based services, . . . ), etc.). Assets available for consumption
can include content assets and management assets. Here, a content asset
can be a linear-programming asset or a non-linear asset. Thus, a content
asset of the disclosure can convey content such as media that is part of
linear programming or non-linear programming, whereas a management asset
provides control functionality that, in response to execution, for
example, by a processor, regulates consumption of content. Such control
functionality can include changing a channel, advancing content,
rewinding content, terminating rendering of content, pausing content
streamed live, recording content, and the like. Accordingly, the asset
request 118 can comprise a request for a content asset or a management
asset.

[0029] In response to such query, for example, device 110 can receive data
indicative of a plurality of assets available for consumption of media
content. Access to such assets can permit, at least in part, device 110
to select a specific asset for consumption. In one aspect, device 110 can
deliver an asset request 118 (or a message 118) to network B 130, wherein
the asset request 118 can convey a command for consumption of an asset
(rendering of a PPV program, pausing a live media streaming, a channel
change, etc.) of the plurality of assets. Such command is referred to
herein as control request and can include request for content assets and
management assets. As described herein, in response, the network 130 can
transmit content 138 and/or signaling 136 to the appliance in accordance
at least in part with the control request.

[0030] In another aspect, device 110 can transmit an asset request 118
that can convey a command for synchronizing a channel pathway for
communication of data and/or signaling among the device 110 and the
appliance 140. Such command is referred to herein as synchronization
request. The channel pathway can comprise a virtual channel or a
downstream frequency carrier in a channel plan (e.g., a predetermined
non-empty set of downstream frequencies available to a service group)
associated with the appliance 140. In response to synchronization
request, the network B 130 can configure the virtual channel or the
downstream frequency carrier as the channel employed for communicating
data and/or signaling from the device 110 to the appliance 140. In an
exemplary implementation, by synchronizing such channel pathway among the
appliance 140 and the device 110, data or signaling, or both, can be
transmitted in-band from the device 110 to the appliance 140, without
reliance, for example, on transmissions in all downstream frequencies of
a service group associated with the device.

[0031] Device 110 can categorize (through use of metadata, for example)
the asset request 118 according to at least two message types. As
described herein, categorization of the asset request 118 can permit
network B 130, or a component therein, to implement indirect control of
media consumption at appliance 140 efficiently. In one scenario, device
110 can assign a first identifier (e.g., metadata) to an asset request
118 that conveys a control request. The first identifier can convey that
the asset request 118 is a control message. In another scenario, device
110 can assign a second identifier (e.g., metadata) to an asset request
118 that conveys a synchronization request. The second identifier can
convey that the asset request 118 is a synchronization message.

[0032] In one scenario, a command for consumption of an asset can include
a channel change request. As described herein, network B 130 can convey
such command to the appliance 140 as part of signaling 136. The channel
change request can include a request for a data stream associated with
media content being consumed at the appliance 140, the request
comprising, for example, a medium access control (MAC) address of the
appliance, and at least one of a virtual channel or a frequency carrier
in a channel plan that is part of the plurality of assets. In another
scenario, a command for consumption of an asset can include an
instruction to control a data stream associated with media content being
consumed at the appliance 140. The instruction can be at least one of a
first instruction to advance the media content associated with the data
stream, a second instruction to rewind the media content associated with
the data stream, or a third instruction to terminate rendering, at the
appliance 140, the media content associated with the data stream.

[0033] Device 110 can communicate with network A 120 or network B 130, or
both, according to various packet-switching (PS) communication protocols
supported by one or more of such networks. For instance, the various
packet-switching communication protocols can include one or more of an
Ethernet protocol format; an internet protocol (IP) format, such as IPv4
and IPv6, or the like; or a user datagram protocol (UDP) format.
Accordingly, in one aspect, device 110 can compose the asset request 118
according to at least one of such protocols.

[0034] FIG. 2 is a high-level block diagram of an exemplary embodiment 200
of a network in accordance with one or more aspects of the disclosure.
The network is network 130 and the boundaries thereof are represented
with dashed lines in FIG. 2, to more clearly identify various aspects of
the exemplary embodiment 200. In the exemplary embodiment 200, network B
130 comprises a core network platform 210 functionally coupled to a
distribution platform 230 through a data and signaling pipe 228. Core
network 210 can have a packet-switched (PS) architecture and can serve as
a border architecture that permits functional coupling to network A 120.
The core network 210 can include various network nodes which can be
distinguished according to the functionality thereof. As illustrated, the
various network nodes can comprise one or more server(s) 214, one or more
gateway node(s) 218, and a network repository 224. While illustrated as a
single entity, the network repository 224 can be distributed in order to
provide data resiliency and other data management advantages. In
addition, while core network platform 210 is illustrated as a single
block, in one or more embodiment(s), such platform can be distributed,
having a centralized deployment site and a plurality of distributed
deployment sites. Functionality and architecture of the one or more
server(s) 214, the one or more gateway node(s) 218, and the network
repository 224 can be specific, yet not exclusive, to the particular
embodiment of the core network 210. For instance, in an exemplary
embodiment in which the core network is an IMS network, network
repository 224 can be a home subscriber server (HSS); server(s) 214 can
comprise application server(s), and specific function control nodes
(e.g., Call Session Control Functions (CSCFs), such as serving CSCF
(S-CSCF) and interrogating CSCF (I-CSCF)) and proxy servers; and gateway
node(s) 218 can comprise a breakout gateway control function (BGCF), a
media gateway (MGW) and a signaling gateway (SGW), and media gateway
control function (MGCF).

[0035] Network nodes, or network elements, in core network 210 can be
functionally coupled through a bus 226, which enables exchange of
information (e.g., data or signaling, or both) among server(s) 214,
gateway node(s) 218, and network repository 224. Bus 226 can include a
plurality of reference links (Cx, Cr, Dh, Dx, Gm, Ma, Mg, etc.), and
related components, and conventional bus architectures such as address
buses, system buses, and the like.

[0036] Distribution platform 230 can comprise one or more signal
processing component(s) (such as asset resource manager 234, asset
control unit 238, and asset source unit 242, and other components not
shown) that can receive and operate on an information stream, such as a
data stream, a signaling stream, or a combination thereof. In one aspect,
such component(s) can perform one or more operations on the information
stream, such encoding, modulation, multiplexing, up-conversion,
combination, and the like. Architecture of distribution platform 230 can
be specific to the implemented modality exploited for transmission of the
information stream. Such modality can include wired delivery or wireless
delivery, and specific protocols for transmission of information such as
packet-switched communication, circuit-switched communication, or the
like. In one embodiment, at least one of such signal processing
component(s) can embody a termination system (TS), such as, in one type
of network, a cable modem termination system (CMTS). In another
embodiment, at least one of the one or more signal processing components
of distribution platform 230 can embody a network router or a network
switch (e.g., a digital subscriber line access multiplexer (DSLAM)) for
transmission of information streams based on a PS communication protocol,
such as internet protocol (IP) (e.g., IPv4 or IPv6). As illustrated, the
distribution platform 230 can comprise a group of one or more originating
node(s) 246 that can transmit the information stream. In certain
embodiments, each originating node of the group of one or more
originating node(s) 246 can embody an edge quadrature amplitude
modulation (QAM) node. In other embodiments, each edge originating node
of the group of one or more originating node(s) 246 can embody a device
that consolidates the functionality of a termination system (e.g., a
CMTS) and an edge QAM node. In other embodiments, each originating node
of the group of one or more originating node(s) 246 can embody a network
router (e.g., a broadband remote access server (BRAS)) or network switch
(e.g., a DSLAM) for transmission of information streams based on a PS
communication protocol (e.g., internet protocol). While illustrated as a
single block, in one or more embodiment(s), distribution platform 230 can
be distributed, having a centralized deployment site (or plant) and a
plurality of hub sites (also referred to as sites). In such
embodiment(s), each one of the hub sites can comprise an edge originating
node of the group of one or more edge originating node(s) 246.

[0037] Distribution platform 230 can receive data (data flows, audio
signals, video signals, any combinations thereof, etc.) and signaling
(control instructions, clock signals, etc.) from a functional element
that is, for example, part of core network platform 210 or that is
functionally coupled thereto. In one scenario, the functional element can
be a server that supplies a combination of audio signal and video signal,
such as an audiovisual signal comprising a video asset. The server can
be, for example, a content server for pay-per-view programming or
video-on-demand assets, an application server, a data server, a telephony
server, a backbone network router, or the like. In such scenario, based
on the formatting of the audiovisual signal, one or more signal
processing component(s) (not shown) in the distribution platform 230 can
process (encode, encrypt, modulate, multiplex, up-convert, combine) the
audiovisual signal and supply a resulting audiovisual signal to an edge
originating node of the group of one or more originating node(s) 246. An
originating node can transmit a plurality of P (a natural number) data
streams, conveying at least a portion of the audiovisual signal. It
should be appreciated that in certain embodiments, the edge originating
node can operate on the audiovisual signal without reliance on such one
or more signal processing component(s). In another scenario, a source
node (e.g., a satellite transceiver coupled to an asset source) coupled
to the distribution platform 230 can generate an audiovisual signal,
which can be processed by one or more processing component(s) and
supplied to an edge originating node of the one or more originating
node(s) 246. Such edge originating node can transmit a plurality of P
data streams conveying at least a portion of the audiovisual signal.

[0038] A gateway node of the one or more gateway node(s) 218 can receive
the asset request 118 and relay it to an asset resource manager 234
(e.g., a session resource manager (SRM) server) that is part of the
distribution platform 230. In another implementation, a server (e.g., a
proxy server) of the one or more server(s) 214 can receive the asset
request 118 and relay it to the asset resource manager 234. As described
herein, the asset request 118 can be a message that conveys a request for
a first data stream associated with media content. In one aspect, the
request can comprise one or more of at least one logical address (e.g., a
medium access control (MAC) address, or an internet protocol (IP)
address) associated with the appliance 140, or at least one of a virtual
channel or a frequency carrier in a channel plan available for delivery
of the media content. The logical address can be a unique address or a
non-unique address, such as an address corresponding to a group of
addresses. In another aspect, the asset request 118 can be a control
message comprising an instruction to control a data stream (e.g., a
multi-program transport stream (MPTS)) associated with a non-linear media
asset (or, more generally, media content) wherein the instruction can be
at least one of a first instruction to render the data stream, a second
instruction to advance rendering of media content (e.g., a fast-forward
instruction) related to the data stream; a third instruction to retreat
the rendering of media content (e.g., a rewind instruction) related to
the data stream; or a fourth instruction to terminate rendering the media
content (e.g., a stop instruction) related to the data stream.

[0039] The asset resource manager unit 234 (also referred to as asset
resource manager 234) can receive at least one message for one or more
appliances (e.g., appliance 140), and can supply the at least one message
to the one or more appliances. In one scenario, the at least one message
can comprise a plurality of asset requests received from respective
devices that are configured to indirectly control consumption of media
through an appliance. As described herein, each message of the at least
one message can convey a command for consuming media content through an
appliance (e.g., appliance 140) of the one or more appliances. For a
message that is a control message, in one implementation, the asset
resource manager 234 can substantially continuously or semi-continuously
supply (e.g., process and transmit) the control message to the appliance
(e.g., the appliance 140) while a delivery criteria is fulfilled and, in
response, the appliance can perform a specific action such as rendering
indicia indicative of the control message. To at least such end, the
asset resource manager 234 can retain a replica of the control message in
a memory that is part of or functionally coupled to the asset resource
manager 234. Such replica can be retained while a delivery criterion is
fulfilled. The substantially continuous or semi-continuous transmission
of the control message can be effected in-band. As an illustration, the
control message can be an instruction to fast forward a video asset being
rendered in a display device functionally coupled to a set-top box (e.g.,
appliance 140). In such case, the asset resource manager 234 can
substantially continuously deliver the fast forward instruction (conveyed
as part of signaling 136, for example) to the set-top box until normal
rendering of the video asset is resumed (which can be an example of a
delivery criterion). In response to receiving the fast-forward
instruction substantially continuously, the set-top box can cause the
display device to render indicia (e.g., a logo) indicative of the
rendering of the video asset being advanced. In certain embodiments, such
indicia can be received as part of content 138. In one embodiment, e.g.,
exemplary embodiment 300 illustrated in FIG. 3, the asset resource
manager 234 can include an interface component 304 to receive an asset
request 118, and to supply content 138 or signaling 136 to the appliance
140 (which, as illustrated above, can be a set-top box) in response to
the asset request 118.

[0040] As described herein, the appliance 140 can receive in-band
signaling without an out-of-band (OOB) channel. Accordingly, a plurality
of asset requests can be transmitted through available downstream
frequency carriers available for delivery of data. In addition, the
various transport streams (e.g., SPTSs, MPSTs) that can be consumed
through deployed appliances (e.g., appliance 140) can have different
amounts of available bandwidth overhead. Thus, in one aspect, prior to
transmission of an asset request (e.g., asset request 118) to an
appliance, the asset resource manager 234 can determine an amount of
network resources (e.g., bandwidth) available for delivery of an asset
request (e.g., a control message, a synchronization message). In one
aspect, the asset resource manager 234 can assign a first priority to an
asset request that is a control message, and a second priority to an
asset request that is a synchronization message. In certain
implementations, the first priority can be higher than the second
priority, since a synchronization message can be delivered at a lesser
rate than control messages (e.g., channel change requests). The
synchronization message can be delivered at the lesser rate in view that,
for example, the synchronization message is utilized once per viewing
session and is transmitted to all downstream frequency channels in a
service group associated with the appliance (e.g., appliance 140). Thus,
communication of the synchronization message can consume a substantive
amount of available bandwidth.

[0041] Based at least on the amount of such resources, the asset resource
manager 234 can supply (e.g., process and transmit) the asset request. To
at least such end, in one implementation, the asset resource manager 234
can combine the asset request (which can be referred to as a message)
with other asset request(s). The extent of the combination of the asset
request with the other asset request(s) can be established by the amount
of network resources. In one aspect, the asset request can be combined
with other asset requests according to categories. For example, when the
asset request is a control message requesting a channel change to a
specific channel, the control message can be combined with another asset
request that is a channel request directed to the specific channel. In
another aspect, the asset request can be combined with other asset
request(s) according to the addresses of the appliances that are intended
to receive the combined asset requests. For example, when the asset
request is a control message requesting a specific programming, the asset
request can be combined with other asset request(s) requesting such
specific programming for other appliance(s). Thus, the combined asset
request can be composed according to the addresses of the controlled
appliances. Combining asset requests according to addresses can increase
efficiency of message delivery, particularly, yet not exclusively, for
unique addresses, since a substantive portion of the unique addresses
address associated with the appliances being controlled are likely to be
similar. In yet another aspect, the asset request can be combined with
other unrelated asset request(s) to adjust to a minimum packet size
(e.g., an MPEG packet size) and thus mitigate or avoid having data
packet(s) padded with null bits. In addition or in the alternative, based
on the amount of network resources (e.g., spectral bandwidth), the asset
resource manager 234 or a functional element coupled thereto, such as an
originating node of the one or more originative node(s) 246, can operate
on at least one transport stream being distributed by the distribution
platform 230 in order to increase the available network resources.

[0042] In certain embodiments, such as exemplary embodiment 300, asset
resource manager 234 can comprise an assessment component 308 to evaluate
the network resources available for transmission of a plurality of asset
requests, and a messaging generator unit 312 (also referred to as
messaging generator 312) to supply at least one asset request. In certain
implementations, the assessment component 308 can operate on one or more
transport streams to increase network resources (e.g., available
bandwidth) for delivery of asset request(s).

[0043] In scenarios in which device 110 is intended to control consumption
of a transport stream conveying a non-linear asset, such transport stream
can generally be transmitted in a specific service group (e.g., a portion
of downstream spectrum comprising one or more narrowcast channels)
associated with the appliance 140. Distribution platform 230 can comprise
an asset control unit 238 that can discover a service group associated
with the appliance and deliver an asset request (e.g., a control message
or a synchronization message) to the appliance. In addition or in the
alternative, for asset requests (e.g., a control message) that select a
specific non-linear asset (e.g., media-on-demand), the asset control unit
238 can determine a suitable format (e.g., video compression, video
resolution, or the like) for transmission of the non-linear asset (or,
more generally, data indicative of such asset) based on functional
capability (computing power, processor clock, etc.) of the appliance 140.
For example, in one aspect, asset control unit 238 can transmit signaling
indicative of the suitable format to an asset source unit 242, which can
provision and deliver the non-linear asset in such format. As an example,
for an appliance 140 that is a digital terminal adaptor, the asset
control unit 238 can establish that delivery of a non-linear asset be
effected through a first delivery pathway comprising an originating node
(e.g., an edge QAM) whereas for an appliance that is a computing device
with suitable resources, the asset control unit 238 can determine that
delivery of the non-linear asset be effected through a second delivery
path comprising an originating node that can be a termination system,
such as a cable modem termination system. Other implementations are
contemplated in which the first pathway can comprise a first network
router or network switch for PS communication, and the second pathway can
comprise a second network router or network switch for PS communication.
The first pathway and the second pathway both include data and signaling
pipe 248, various functional elements of transport network 250 (e.g., an
HFC network, a broadband network such as a digital subscriber line (DSL)
network, or the like) and data and signaling pipe 254.

[0044] The transport network 250 can be a WAN that can be embodied in a
wireless network, a wireline network, or a combination thereof, and
supplies data service(s), such as television programming, video on
demand, Internet service, packet-switched data or telephony, to a user
location which can be stationary (e.g., a location of a CPE) or mobile
(e.g., a location of mobile device). In certain implementations,
transport network 250 can be embodied in an optic fiber network, a
coaxial cable network, a hybrid fiber coaxial (HFC) network, or a
wireless network comprising terrestrial wireless links and deep-space
links (e.g., satellite links), or any combination thereof. As an
illustration, in an embodiment in which the transport network 250 is an
HFC network, data pipe and signaling 248 can comprise several optic fiber
links and associated optical functional elements, such as downstream
lasers, light amplifiers, last-mile fiber aggregator node, and the like.
In addition, in such embodiment, transport network 250 can comprise
various RF amplifiers and coaxial taps to respective dwellings (e.g., a
stationary user location) wherein customer premises equipment (CPE), such
as appliance 140, can consume a data service provided through
distribution platform 230. In such embodiment, the CPE can be
functionally coupled to a cable modem or other device that serves as the
network gateway to the dwelling network from the transport network 250.
As another illustration, in an embodiment in which the transport network
250 is a wired broadband PS network, data pipe and signaling 248 can
comprise Ethernet links, and can include network routers such as BRASs
and network switches, such as DSLAMs. The network switches can be
functionally coupled to home gateways (e.g., DSL modems) in dwellings in
which CPE (e.g., appliance 140) consume data services provided through
distribution platform 230.

[0045] In certain embodiments, transmission of a channel change request
can be mitigated or avoided. For example, for users who desire to control
their appliances (e.g., a one-way box) with an internet-based device
through a switched digital video (SDV) QAM node or a network router or
network switch for PS protocol (e.g., IP) communication (both of which
can be part of, for example, the one or more originating node(s) 246),
channel change requests can be mitigated or avoided for
linear-programming channels. Accordingly, in such scenario, insertion of
discrete channel change requests into QAM downstream channels or
downstream channels for PS communication can be prevented or avoided.
Reducing insertion of discrete channel requests into QAM downstream
channels or downstream channels for PS communication can be advantageous
in embodiments in which an amount of available network resources
(bandwidth, bitrate, etc.) overhead cannot be controlled through a
component, such as asset resource manager 234, that operates on transport
streams in order to increase such overhead.

[0046] The indirect control of an appliance (e.g., appliance 140), via,
for example, the SDV QAM node or a network router or a network switch for
PS protocol communication, can be more efficiently implemented in
scenarios having a small population of users per originating node. In one
aspect, a re-pair channel change message can be transmitted on most all
QAM or IP downstream channels or downstream channels for PS communication
at least once indicating an appliance (e.g., a DTA coupled to a
television set) to access, for example, a specific SDV QAM node or a
specific network router or a specific network switch for PS protocol
communication for media content consumption. Here, the re-pair channel
change message can configure, for example, a pair of the form (SDV QAM
node, program number) or (IP switch, program number), wherein the program
number is associated with the linear channel that transports media
content. As indicated previously, the specific SDV QAM node or specific
network router or specific network switch for PS protocol communication
can, for example, be part of distribution platform 230. In response to
transmitting (e.g., broadcasting) such re-pair channel change message,
the distribution platform 230 (e.g., a local headend or hub) can control,
via asset resource manager 234, for example, the amount of network
resources overhead that is available. Such overhead can be associated
with the small number of user devices (e.g., appliance 140) that can
consume (e.g., receive) content through, for example, the specific SDV
QAM node or the specific network router or the specific network switch
for PS protocol communication.

[0047] In a scenario in which a user is watching a first linear channel
through, e.g., a specific SDV QAM node, and a second linear channel the
user desires to watch is not being transmitted (e.g., broadcast) on any
SDV QAM node at an SDV system (not shown), transmission of a channel
change request still can be avoided. Here, the first linear channel can
have a specific program number associated therewith, and watching a
linear channel refers to consuming media content, such as linear
programming content, being transported (or transmitted) in the linear
channel. The SDV system, which can, for example, be part of distribution
platform 230, can change the linear program (e.g., linear media content)
being transmitted on the specific pair (SDV QAM node, program number),
causing the appliance, such as a DTA coupled to a television set, to
render the desired linear program associated with the second linear
channel the user desires to watch. In one aspect, such change among
linear programs can result in a substantially instantaneous channel
change. In another aspect, in an implementation in which, for example,
the SDV system (not shown) has memory storage (e.g., a buffer) available
for the SDV channel associated with an SDV QAM node, delivery of linear
programming through, e.g., the SDV QAM node can be provided with live
buffer support, which may not be supported by a one-way appliance such as
a DTA. In an additional or alternative scenario in which the first linear
channel is consumed through, for example, a specific network router or a
network switch for communication, and the second linear channel is not
transmitted on any network router or network node in a local distribution
hub associated with such node or router, transmission of a channel change
request to switch to the second channel can be avoided in substantially
the same manner as described hereinbefore. In one aspect, the local
distribution hub, or a suitable content delivery system therein, can
change the linear program being transmitted in the specific network
router or specific network switch), causing the appliance, such as a DTA
coupled to a television set, to render the desired linear program
associated with the second linear channel the user desires to watch. Such
system can, for example, support live buffering through memory, or more
generally computer-readable media, available to the specific network
router or specific network switch.

[0048] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment 400 of an
asset manager 410 that enables indirect control of media consumption at
an appliance in accordance with one or more aspects of the subject
disclosure. In the illustrated embodiment, asset resource manager 410
comprises one or more input/output (I/O) interface(s), one or more
processor(s) 408, a memory 416, and a bus 412 that functionally couples
various system components including the one or more processor(s) 408 to
the memory 416. In the case of multiple processors comprising the group
of processors 408, the asset resource manager 410 can exploit concurrent
computing.

[0049] The functionality of asset resource manager 410 can be configured
by a group of computer-executable instructions (e.g., programming code
instructions or programming modules) that can be executed by a processor
of the one or more processor(s) 408. Generally, programming modules can
comprise computer code, routines, objects, components, data structures
(e.g., metadata objects, data object, control objects), and so forth that
can be configured (e.g., coded or programmed) to perform a particular
action or implement particular abstract data types in response to
execution by the processor.

[0050] Any number of programming code instructions or program modules can
be retained in memory 416. Data and computer-accessible instructions,
e.g., computer-readable and computer-executable instructions related to
asset administration, as described herein, can be retained in memory 416.
In one aspect, a memory element which is represented as the asset
administration data 420, can comprise a variety of data and metadata
related to indirect control of media consumption in an appliance (e.g.,
appliance 140) in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. In another
aspect, one or more asset administration instruction(s) can be retained
in memory 416 as a memory element which is represented as the block asset
administration instruction(s) 418. In the subject specification and
annexed drawings, memory elements are illustrated as discrete blocks,
however, such memory elements and related computer-executable
instructions and data can reside at various times in different storage
elements (registers, files, memory addresses, etc.; not shown) in memory
416. In yet another aspect, asset administration instruction(s) 418 are
stored as an implementation (e.g., a compiled instance) of one or more
computer-executable instructions that implement and thus provide at least
the functionality of the methods described herein. Asset administration
instruction(s) 418 also can be transmitted across some form of computer
readable media.

[0051] Memory 416 can be embodied in a variety of computer-readable media.
Exemplary computer-readable media can be any available media that is
accessible by a processor in a computing device, such as one of the one
or more processor(s) 408 in the asset resource manager 410, and
comprises, for example, both volatile and non-volatile media, removable
and non-removable media. As an example, computer-readable media can
comprise "computer storage media," or "computer-readable storage media,"
and "communications media." Such storage media can be non-transitory
storage media. In the subject specification and annexed drawings,
"computer storage media" can comprise volatile and non-volatile,
removable and non-removable media implemented in any methods or
technology for storage of information such as computer readable
instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Exemplary
computer storage media comprises, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM,
EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital
versatile disks (DVD) or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes,
magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices,
or any other medium which can be used to store the desired information
and which can be accessed by a computer or a processor therein or
functionally coupled thereto.

[0052] In one aspect, memory 416 can comprise computer-readable media in
the form of volatile memory, such as random access memory (RAM), or
non-volatile memory, such as read only memory (ROM). In one aspect,
memory 416 can be partitioned into a system memory (not shown) that can
contain data and/or programming modules that enable essential operation
and control of asset resource manager 410. Such program modules can be
implemented (e.g., compiled and stored) in memory element 422, referred
to as operating system (OS) instruction(s), whereas such data can be
system data that is retained in memory element 424, referred to as system
data. The OS instruction(s) 422 and system data 424 can be immediately
accessible to and/or are presently operated on by at least one processor
of the one or more processor(s) 408. Operating system 422 can comprise
OSs such as Windows operating system, Unix, Linux, iOS and substantially
any operating system for tethered computing devices. In another aspect,
memory 416 can comprise other removable/non-removable,
volatile/non-volatile computer non-transitory storage media. By way of
example, memory 416 can include a mass storage unit (not shown) which can
provide non-volatile storage of computer code, computer readable
instructions, data structures, program modules, and other data for the
computing device 410. As an example, the mass storage unit (not shown)
can be a hard disk, a removable magnetic disk, a removable optical disk,
magnetic cassettes or other magnetic storage devices, flash memory cards,
CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or other optical storage, random
access memories (RAM), read only memories (ROM), electrically erasable
programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), and the like.

[0053] In various embodiments of the disclosure, the indirect control of
media consumption at an appliance effected in the disclosed systems and
methods can be performed in response to execution of software components
(e.g., one or more implementations of asset administration instruction(s)
418) by a processor or computing device. In particular, yet not
exclusively, to provide specific functionality of network node 410, a
processor of the one or more processor(s) 408 in network node 410 can
execute at least a portion of asset administration instruction(s) 418,
consuming asset administration data 420 in accordance with aspects of the
subject innovation.

[0054] In general, a processor of the one or more processor(s) 408 refers
to any computing processing unit or processing device comprising a
single-core processor, a single-core processor with software multithread
execution capability, multi-core processors, multi-core processors with
software multithread execution capability, multi-core processors with
hardware multithread technology, parallel platforms, and parallel
platforms with distributed shared memory (e.g., a cache). In addition or
in the alternative, a processor of the one or more processor(s) 408 can
refer to an integrated circuit with dedicated functionality, such as an
application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a digital signal
processor (DSP), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a complex
programmable logic device (CPLD), a discrete gate or transistor logic,
discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to
perform the functions described herein. In one aspect, processors
referred to herein can exploit nano-scale architectures such as,
molecular and quantum-dot based transistors, switches and gates, in order
to optimize space usage or enhance performance of the computing devices
that can implement the various aspects of the subject disclosure. In
another aspect, the one or more processor(s) 408 can be implemented as a
combination of computing processing units.

[0055] The one or more input/output (I/O) interface(s) 404 can
functionally couple (e.g., communicatively couple) asset resource manager
410 to another functional element of distribution platform 230 described
herein.

[0056] In certain embodiments, the one or more I/O interface(s) 404 can
include at least one port that can permit connection of the asset
resource manager 410 to peripheral devices, network adaptors such as
those present in reference links, and other network nodes. In one aspect,
the at least one port can include one or more of a parallel port (e.g.,
GPIB, IEEE-1284), a serial port (e.g., RS-232, universal serial bus
(USB), FireWire or IEEE-1394), an Ethernet port, a V.35 port, or the
like.

[0057] At least one I/O interface of the one or more I/O interface(s) 404
can enable delivery of output (e.g., output data, output signaling) to
another network node (either intra-network node or inter-network node) or
a peripheral device. Such output can represent an outcome, or result, of
implementation of a method described herein or action that is part of
such method. In another aspect, such output can be any representation
(textual, graphical, aural, etc.) of data or signaling resulting from
implementation (e.g., execution) of the methods (or processes) for
indirectly controlling media consumption at a remote appliance in
accordance with aspects of the disclosure.

[0058] Bus 412 represents one or more of several types of bus structures,
including a memory bus or memory controller, a peripheral bus, an
accelerated graphics port, and a processor or local bus using any of a
variety of bus architectures. As an example, such architectures can
comprise an Industry Standard Architecture (ISA) bus, a Micro Channel
Architecture (MCA) bus, an Enhanced ISA (EISA) bus, a Video Electronics
Standards Association (VESA) local bus, an Accelerated Graphics Port
(AGP) bus, and a Peripheral Component Interconnects (PCI), a PCI-Express
bus, a Personal Computer Memory Card Industry Association (PCMCIA),
Universal Serial Bus (USB) and the like.

[0059] FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary embodiment 500 of a device for
indirect control of media consumption at appliance in accordance with
aspects of the subject disclosure. The device 510 can embody device 110
described herein. In the illustrated embodiment, device 510 comprises one
or more input/output (I/O) interface(s), one or more processor(s) 508, a
memory 516, and a bus 512 that functionally couples various system
components including the one or more processor(s) 508 to the memory 516.
In the case of multiple processors comprising the group of processors
508, the device 510 can exploit concurrent computing.

[0060] The functionality of the device 510 can be configured by a group of
computer-executable instructions (e.g., programming code instructions or
programming modules) that can be executed by a processor of the one or
more processor(s) 508. Generally, programming modules can comprise
computer code, routines, objects, components, data structures (e.g.,
metadata objects, data object, control objects), and so forth, that can
be configured (e.g., coded or programmed) to perform a particular action
or implement particular abstract data types in response to execution by
the processor.

[0061] Any number of programming code instructions or program modules can
be retained in memory 516. Data and computer-accessible instructions,
e.g., computer-readable and computer-executable instructions, related to
asset administration as described herein can be retained in memory 516.
In one aspect, a memory element which is represented as the asset
administration data 520, can comprise a variety of data and metadata
related to indirect control of media consumption in an appliance (e.g.,
appliance 140) in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. In another
aspect, one or more asset administration instruction(s) can be retained
in memory 516 as a memory element which is represented as the block asset
administration instruction(s) 518. In the subject specification and
annexed drawings, memory elements are illustrated as discrete blocks,
however, such memory elements and related computer-executable
instructions and data can reside at various times in different storage
elements (registers, files, memory addresses, etc.; not shown) in memory
516. In yet another aspect, asset administration instruction(s) 518 are
stored as an implementation (e.g., a compiled instance) of one or more
computer-executable instructions that implement and thus provide at least
the functionality of the methods described herein. Asset administration
instruction(s) 518 also can be transmitted across some form of computer
readable media.

[0062] Memory 516 can be embodied in a variety of computer-readable media.
Exemplary computer-readable media can be any available media that is
accessible by a processor in a computing device, such as one of the one
or more processor(s) 508 in the device 510, and comprises, for example,
both volatile and non-volatile media, removable and non-removable media.
As an example, computer-readable media can comprise "computer storage
media," or "computer-readable storage media," and "communications media"
in accordance with features described herein. Such storage media can be
non-transitory storage media.

[0063] In one aspect, memory 516 can comprise computer-readable media in
the form of volatile memory, such as random access memory (RAM), or
non-volatile memory, such as read only memory (ROM). In one aspect,
memory 516 can be partitioned into a system memory (not shown) that can
contain data and/or programming modules that enable essential operation
and control of device 510. As described herein, such program modules can
be implemented (e.g., compiled and stored) in memory element 522,
referred to as operating system (OS) instruction(s), whereas such data
can be system data that is retained in memory element 524, referred to as
system data. The OS instruction(s) 522 and system data 524 can be
immediately accessible to and/or are presently operated on by at least
one processor of the one or more processor(s) 508. Operating system 522
can comprise OSs such as Windows operating system, Unix, Linux, iOS and
substantially any operating system for wireless or tethered computing
devices. In another aspect, memory 516 can comprise other
removable/non-removable, volatile/non-volatile computer non-transitory
storage media. By way of example, memory 516 can include a mass storage
unit (not shown) which can provide non-volatile storage of computer code,
computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, and
other data for the device 510. As an example, the mass storage unit (not
shown) can be a hard disk, a removable magnetic disk, a removable optical
disk, magnetic cassettes or other magnetic storage devices, flash memory
cards, CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or other optical storage,
random access memories (RAM), read only memories (ROM), electrically
erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), and the like.

[0064] In various embodiments of the disclosure, the indirect control of
media consumption at an appliance effected in the disclosed systems and
methods can be performed in response to execution of software components
(e.g., one or more implementations of asset administration instruction(s)
518) by a processor or computing device. In particular, yet not
exclusively, to provide specific functionality of device 510, a processor
of the one or more processor(s) 508 in device 510 can execute at least a
portion of asset administration instruction(s) 518, consuming asset
administration data 520 in accordance with aspects of the disclosure.

[0065] In general, a processor of the one or more processor(s) 508 refers
to any computing processing unit or processing device comprising a
single-core processor, a single-core processor with software multithread
execution capability, multi-core processors, multi-core processors with
software multithread execution capability, multi-core processors with
hardware multithread technology, parallel platforms, and parallel
platforms with distributed shared memory (e.g., a cache). In addition or
in the alternative, a processor of the one or more processor(s) 508 can
refer to an integrated circuit with dedicated functionality, such as an
application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a digital signal
processor (DSP), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a complex
programmable logic device (CPLD), a discrete gate or transistor logic,
discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to
perform the functions described herein. In one aspect, processors
referred to herein can exploit nano-scale architectures such as,
molecular and quantum-dot based transistors, switches and gates, in order
to optimize space usage or enhance performance of the computing devices
that can implement the various aspects of the subject disclosure. In
another aspect, the one or more processor(s) 508 can be implemented as a
combination of computing processing units.

[0066] The one or more input/output (I/O) interface(s) 504 can
functionally couple (e.g., communicatively couple) device 510 to another
functional element of network A 120 described herein, and thereby
functionally couple the device 510 to the distribution platform 230 via
the core network platform 210.

[0067] In certain embodiments, the one or more I/O interface(s) 504 can
include at least one port that can permit connection of the device 510 to
peripheral devices, network adaptors such as those present in reference
links, and other network nodes. In one aspect, the at least one port can
include one or more of a parallel port (e.g., GPIB, IEEE-1284), a serial
port (e.g., RS-232, universal serial bus (USB), FireWire or IEEE-1394),
an Ethernet port, a V.35 port, or the like.

[0068] At least one I/O interface of the one or more I/O interface(s) 504
can enable delivery of output (e.g., output data, output signaling) to
another computing device or a peripheral device. Such output can
represent an outcome, or result, of a method or action performed at the
device 510. In one aspect, the output can comprise at least one message
related to routing an emergency call under a fault condition at an
emergency services network. In another aspect, such output can be any
representation (textual, graphical, aural, etc.) of data or signaling
resulting from implementation (e.g., execution) of the methods (or
processes) for controlling consumption of media at an appliance (e.g.,
appliance 140) that is remote to the device 510. A representation of such
data and signaling can be determined, at least in part, by a specific
end-user interface employed controlling consumption of media at the
appliance.

[0069] Bus 512 represents one or more of several types of bus structures,
including a memory bus or memory controller, a peripheral bus, an
accelerated graphics port, and a processor or local bus using any of a
variety of bus architectures. As an example, and similarly, yet not
identically, to bus 412, such architectures can comprise an Industry
Standard Architecture (ISA) bus, a Micro Channel Architecture (MCA) bus,
an Enhanced ISA (EISA) bus, a Video Electronics Standards Association
(VESA) local bus, an Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP) bus, and a
Peripheral Component Interconnects (PCI), a PCI-Express bus, a Personal
Computer Memory Card Industry Association (PCMCIA), Universal Serial Bus
(USB) and the like.

[0070] In view of the various aspects of indirect control of media
consumption at an appliance described herein, exemplary methods that can
be implemented in accordance with the disclosed subject matter can be
better appreciated with reference to the exemplary flowcharts in FIG. 6,
FIG. 7, and FIG. 8. For simplicity of explanation, the exemplary methods
disclosed herein are presented and described as a series of actions (also
referred to as steps), pictorially represented with a block or as a
delivered or received message in a call flow. However, it is to be
understood and appreciated that implementation, and related advantages,
of such methods is not limited by the order of actions, as some actions
may occur in different orders and/or concurrently with other actions from
that shown and described herein. For example, the various methods (also
referred to as processes) of the subject disclosure can alternatively be
represented as a series of interrelated states or events, such as in a
state diagram.

[0071] The methods disclosed throughout the subject specification can be
stored on an article of manufacture, such as a computer-readable storage
medium, to facilitate transporting and transferring such methods to
computing devices (e.g., desktop computers, mobile computers, mobile
telephones, and the like) for execution, and thus implementation, by a
processor or for storage in a memory.

[0072] FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 are flowcharts of exemplary methods 600 and 700
for indirectly controlling media consumption in an appliance according to
aspects described herein. The appliance can be a device such as CPE
deployed as part of a communication network. In one or more embodiments,
as described herein, the appliance (e.g., appliance 140) can be a
terminal display networked in a communication network that provides a
service, such as PPV programming, VOD, digital telephony, or the like. In
one aspect, such terminal display can be functionally coupled to a
digital terminal adaptor (DTA). In some embodiments, a device (e.g.,
device 110) remote from the appliance can perform (e.g., execute) the
exemplary methods 600 and 700. For example, a processor of the device
(e.g., device 110) or functionally coupled thereto can execute
computer-executable instructions that represent such methods.

[0073] At block 610, data indicative of a plurality of assets available
for consumption of media content can be acquired, e.g., retrieved or
received. In a lookup scenario, the data can be received in response to a
query (or a request) for availability of such assets. In one aspect, the
plurality of assets comprises at least one content asset and at least one
management asset. At block 620, a first message conveying a command for
consuming an asset of the plurality of assets through an appliance is
transmitted. In one aspect, transmitting the first message can comprise
adding a first identifier (e.g., first metadata) to the first message,
the first identifier indicating the first message is a control message.
In another aspect, the first message can convey a request for a first
data stream (e.g., a first MPEG transport stream, either a multi-program
TS (MPTS) or a single-program TS (SPTS)) associated with the media
content, where the request can comprise one or more of (i) a logical
address (e.g., a medium access control (MAC) address, or an IP address)
of the appliance and (ii) at least one of a virtual channel or a
frequency carrier (e.g., in a channel plan). As described herein, the
logical address can be a unique address or a non-unique address, such as
an address corresponding to a group of addresses. The frequency carrier
in the channel plan can be identified by a specific name within the
request. In yet another aspect, the first message can convey an
instruction to control a second data stream (e.g., a second MPEG
transport stream, either an MPTS or a SPTS) associated with the media
content. In one scenario, the instruction can be a first instruction to
advance the video content related to the second data stream. In another
scenario, the instruction can be a second instruction to rewind or fast
forward (e.g., using trick files) the video content related to the second
data stream. In yet another scenario, the instruction can be a third
instruction to terminate rendering the media content (e.g., video
content, audio content) related to the second data stream. In other
scenarios, the instruction can be a combination of two or more of the
first instruction, the second instruction, and the third instruction.

[0074] At block 630, a second message conveying a command for
synchronizing a channel pathway for communication of data and/or
signaling among the appliance and a device can be transmitted. As
described herein, the channel pathway can comprise a virtual channel or a
downstream frequency carrier in a channel plan (e.g., a predetermined
non-empty set of downstream frequencies available to a service group)
associated with the appliance (e.g., device 140). In one aspect,
transmitting the second message can comprise adding a second identifier
(e.g., second metadata) to the second message, the second identifier
indicating the second message is a synchronization message.

[0075] As described herein, the order in which blocks 610 through 630 are
implemented (e.g., executed) can be different from the order illustrated
in FIG. 6. For example, in one scenario, the device (e.g., device 110)
that can implement the exemplary method 600 can perform block 630 prior
to performing block 620, thus causing the appliance to be synchronized to
the device prior to such appliance receiving a command (e.g., a channel
change request) to consume an asset (e.g., a PPV asset, or a VOD asset).

[0076] Regarding exemplary method 700, at block 710, a first message
conveying a command for synchronizing a channel pathway for communication
of data and/or signaling among the appliance and a device can be
transmitted. The first channel configuration can be a first virtual
channel or a first frequency carrier in a channel plan (e.g., a
predetermined set of downstream frequencies available to a service group)
associated with the appliance (e.g., appliance 140). As described herein,
in an exemplary implementation, by synchronizing such channel pathway
among the appliance and the device, data or signaling, or both, can be
transmitted in-band from the device to the appliance, without reliance,
for example, on transmissions in all downstream frequencies of a service
group associated with the device. At block 720, a second message
conveying a command for switching the appliance to a specific channel
configuration can be transmitted. In view of the synchronizing step, such
command can be transmitted, for example, in-band via the channel pathway
as opposed to OOB or via broadcasting mode. The specific channel
configuration can be a virtual channel or a frequency carrier in a
channel plan (e.g., a predetermined set of downstream frequencies
available to a service group) associated with the appliance.

[0077] FIG. 8 is a flowchart of an exemplary method 800 for controlling
media consumption in an appliance (e.g., CPE) according to aspects
described herein. In one aspect, the subject exemplary method 800 can be
implemented (e.g., executed) by a network node (e.g., asset resource
manager 234) that is part of a media-on-demand domain of a distribution
platform (e.g., distribution platform 230) of a network provider that
supplies digital service(s) comprising a variety of media assets for
consumption by user device.

[0078] At block 810, a message conveying a command for consuming media
content through an appliance is received. At block 820, an amount of
network resources available for delivery of the message is determined. In
one aspect, the amount of network resources can comprise an amount of
bandwidth overhead available or allocated to a transport stream
associated with a downstream frequency carrier. In another aspect, the
amount of network resources can comprise a network load of messages
conveying respective commands for consuming media content. In certain
embodiments, the exemplary method 800 can include processing block that
can comprise adjusting the amount of network resources in response to an
outcome of the block 820. For instance, such adjusting action can
comprise modifying encoding or compression, or both, of a plurality of
transport streams being transmitted in downstream frequency channel(s).
At block 830, a delivery priority is assigned to the message based at
least on the amount network resources. In addition or in the alternative,
the delivery priority can be assigned based on increasing network
operation performance, such as reducing or minimizing total latency
amongst transmitted packets. For example, since it generally takes longer
to tune high-definition (HD) channels than standard-definition (SD)
channels typically due to longer time between I frames, when the message
is a channel change request to an HD channel (or an HD tune request), the
message can be assigned higher priority than a SD tune request.
Similarly, yet not identically, a channel change request to a service
(e.g., linear programming) in the same frequency can take less time than
channel change request to a service in a different frequency.
Accordingly, when the message is a channel change request to a different
frequency, the message can be assigned a higher priority than a channel
change request within the same frequency. At block 840, the message is
supplied to the appliance based at least on the amount of network
resources and the delivery priority. As described herein, in certain
scenarios the message can be supplied as part of in-band signals.
Supplying the message can comprise processing and transmitting the
message in accordance with aspects described herein, such as grouping a
plurality of two or more messages and transmitting same.

[0079] While the systems, apparatuses, and methods have been described in
connection with exemplary embodiments and specific illustrations, it is
not intended that the scope be limited to the particular embodiments set
forth, as the embodiments herein are intended in all respects to be
illustrative rather than restrictive.

[0080] Unless otherwise expressly stated, it is in no way intended that
any protocol, procedure, process, or method set forth herein be construed
as requiring that its acts or steps be performed in a specific order.
Accordingly, in the subject specification, where description of a process
or method does not actually recite an order to be followed by its acts or
steps or it is not otherwise specifically recited in the claims or
descriptions of the subject disclosure that the steps are to be limited
to a specific order, it is in no way intended that an order be inferred,
in any respect. This holds for any possible non-express basis for
interpretation, including: matters of logic with respect to arrangement
of steps or operational flow; plain meaning derived from grammatical
organization or punctuation; the number or type of embodiments described
in the specification or annexed drawings, or the like.

[0081] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various
modifications and variations can be made in the subject disclosure
without departing from the scope or spirit of the subject disclosure.
Other embodiments of the subject disclosure will be apparent to those
skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice
of the subject disclosure as disclosed herein. It is intended that the
specification and examples be considered as non-limiting illustrations
only, with a true scope and spirit of the subject disclosure being
indicated by the following claims.